Key Takeaways
- Senate panel discusses telecom sector issues, including e-SIM transfers.
- PTA aims to enable at least 10 free e-SIM card transfers per consumer.
- 5G rollout expected by year-end with visible coverage in major areas.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is finalizing a uniform policy that will allow consumers to transfer their e-SIM cards at least 10 times without any cost, according to the Senate Standing Committee on Cabinet Secretariat. This development comes amid concerns about restrictions surrounding e-SIM transfers and increasing consolidation in the telecom sector.
During a meeting chaired by Rana Mahmoodul Hassan, PTA Chairman Hafeezur Rehman informed the committee that current policies vary among telecom operators, allowing only limited transfers. He stated that a uniform policy is being developed to ensure consumers can make at least 10 free transfers, addressing the need for greater flexibility in SIM card management.
The committee also discussed the rollout of 5G services, with the PTA reporting that 499 sites enabling 5G coverage have been deployed. The chairman added that visible 5G coverage is expected across major areas by the end of the current year, and migration to 5G is anticipated to significantly improve existing 4G service quality.
Committee members expressed concerns over increasing consolidation in the telecom sector, warning that mergers could reduce competition and ultimately affect consumers. The PTA maintained that the sector remains deregulated and competitive, with efforts underway to make 5G-enabled devices more affordable for consumers.
On mobile coverage issues, the committee sought clarification regarding reports of mobile tower sales and stressed that expansion of telecom infrastructure should not compromise citizens' property rights. PTA officials informed the committee that live monitoring of towers has been introduced, while open-source mechanisms are being utilized to enhance network coverage in underserved areas.
The chairman also suggested using Low-Earth-Orbit satellite technology to improve connectivity in remote and unserved regions. The committee reviewed existing mechanisms for issuing SIM cards if biometric verification fails, with exemptions currently available in three specified categories upon submission of medical certificates or Nadra verification.
Committee members directed the PTA to introduce alternative verification methods, including retina scanning and facial recognition through mobile applications, to enhance security and convenience for consumers. The committee also highlighted the need for greater affordability of 5G-enabled devices as part of ongoing efforts to improve digital connectivity in Pakistan.
